Opinion

Russell D. Moore writes that civility is often limited to whether or not we agree with the other person. He adds he is repelled by the word “civility” because it aspires to too little. We are called not to mere civility, but beyond civility to kindness.

Shane Claiborne writes that he will be voting on Nov. 3. But he will not be looking for a political savior. He will be looking to do damage control. He’ll be voting for the politicians who he believe will do the least amount of damage to the world, and alleviate the most suffering for the most people.

Editor Brian Kaylor argues that too often we miss the political implications of worship because we’ve privatized our religious practices and compartmentalized our faith. But worship is inherently a protest.

Columnist Wade Paris writes about the courage shown by the biblical character Esther and that of his mother also named Esther.

As we barrel toward Election Day, I’m weighing each party’s values against the Jesus revolution I long ago pledged allegiance to. The Democrats elevate values consistent with my faith regarding race, justice, and the environment; the Republicans on the sanctity of life and human sexuality.

In about two months, U.S. voters will head to the polls (if they don’t first drop their ballot in the mail). So, we are entering the final, busy dash of the campaign. But we are also entering a dangerous time in the campaign.

Columnist Greg Mamula reflects on recent efforts by athletes to protest against racial injustice by boycotting games. He notes that sports are a reward for a functioning society, and we are not a healthy, functioning society right now.

Columnist Terrell Carter reflects on Psalm 31, which reminds us that it is okay for us to express our pain, frustration, and heartache about life to God and others in honest ways, and know that these expressions of pain are okay with God.

Columnist Heather Feeler reflects on leading a small group of girls from her church in helping with a Habitat for Humanity build as part of a stay-in-town mission trip week.

It’s tempting to watch Jerry Falwell’s fall and, well, cheer or snicker. After all, he’s done much to hurt the witness of Christianity with his history of hateful rhetoric and partisanship politics — not to mention the sordid details of the scandal that did him in. But this is a tragic moment.